Original Jazz Bear mascot dies after cancer battle

Jon Absey, who donned the costume for 25 years, was a beloved figure in Utah

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Jon Absey, the original mascot for the Utah Jazz basketball team known as the Jazz Bear, has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Absey had been the Jazz Bear since 1994, performing as the beloved mascot for 25 years and earning recognition as Mascot of the Year five times.

Why it matters

Absey was a fixture at Jazz games for over two decades, entertaining fans with his daredevil stunts and antics in the Jazz Bear costume. His passing marks the end of an era for the Utah Jazz organization and the local community that embraced the Jazz Bear as an iconic part of the game-day experience.

The details

Absey was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2025. Despite his illness, he continued to make appearances as the Jazz Bear whenever possible until his health declined. Absey was inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in recognition of his long tenure and memorable performances as the Jazz Bear.

  • Absey first donned the Jazz Bear costume in 1994.
  • He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2025.
  • Absey passed away on January 31, 2026.

The players

Jon Absey

The original mascot for the Utah Jazz basketball team, known as the Jazz Bear, who performed in the costume for 25 years.

Utah Jazz

The professional basketball team based in Salt Lake City, Utah, for whom Absey performed as the Jazz Bear mascot.

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What they’re saying

“Jon Absey was a beloved figure in Utah and his passing is a tremendous loss for the Jazz organization and our community.”

— Gail Miller, Owner, Utah Jazz (ksltv.com)

What’s next

The Utah Jazz organization is planning a memorial service to celebrate Absey's life and legacy as the original Jazz Bear mascot.

The takeaway

Absey's two-and-a-half decade tenure as the Jazz Bear mascot made him an integral part of the Utah Jazz experience, and his passing marks the end of an era for the team and its loyal fanbase.